Packaging systems for implantable devices and related methods

ABSTRACT

A tray for securing an implantable device to a carrier member includes a slot configured to retain the carrier member and a receptacle adjacent the slot. The carrier member surrounds a shaft of the implantable device. The receptacle has a first width at a proximal end of the receptacle to receive first and second arms of the implantable device in an initial state in which the first and second arms extend substantially perpendicularly from the shaft. The receptacle has a second width at a distal end of the receptacle for receiving the first and second arms of the implantable device in a collapsed state in which the first and second arms are folded against the shaft such that the carrier member can be slid over the first and second arms to retain the first and second arms. The second width is less than the first width.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 62/938,449, filed on Nov. 21, 2019. The entire content of thisapplication is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to packaging systems for implantable devices andrelated methods of handling such implantable devices using components ofthe packaging systems.

BACKGROUND

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can be placed in the uterus of a patient asa form of contraceptive for preventing pregnancy. IUDs typically have aT-shape with arms extending perpendicularly to a shaft of the IUD. Insome cases, to prepare an IUD for implantation, a healthcare providermust use his or her fingers to fold the arms of the IUD against theshaft and must maintain the arms in the folded configuration with his orher fingers while positioning an insertion tube over the arms in thefolded configuration. However, due to the small size and surface area ofthe arms of the IUD, many healthcare providers have difficulty foldingthe arms using their fingers and maintaining the folded configuration ofthe arms long enough to pass the insertion tube over the arms of theIUD.

SUMMARY

This disclosure relates to packaging systems for implantable devices(e.g., IUDs) and related methods of handling such implantable devicesusing components of the packaging systems.

In one aspect, a loading device for securing an implantable device to acarrier member includes an elongate body configured to support thecarrier member. The carrier member surrounds a shaft of the implantabledevice. The loading device further includes a first channel extending ina first direction from the elongate body and configured to receive afirst arm of the implantable device that extends from the shaft and asecond channel extending in a second direction from the elongate bodyand configured to receive a second arm of the implantable device thatextends from the shaft, the second direction being opposite the firstdirection. The first and second channels are pivotable towards theelongate body respectively to move the first and second arms into acollapsed state against the shaft in which the first and second arms canbe retained within the carrier member.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the first and second channels are substantiallyperpendicular to the elongate body in an initial state or the first andsecond channels are positioned at an obtuse angle relative to theelongate body in an initial state.

In certain embodiments, the first and second channels are pivotable tofold the first and second arms into the collapsed state against theshaft to reduce a width of the implantable device such that the carriermember can further surround the first and second arms.

In some embodiments, the first and second channels are pivotablerespectively at first and second hinges along the elongate body.

In certain embodiments, the implantable device is an intrauterinedevice, and the carrier member includes an insertion tube.

In some embodiments, the loading device further includes a receptacleextending from the elongate body and configured to retain the carriermember against the elongate body.

In certain embodiments, the receptacle includes flanges that areconfigured to retain the carrier member against the elongate body.

In some embodiments, the receptacle is configured to retain the carriermember in a slidable state against the elongate body.

In certain embodiments, the loading device further includes a stringthat can be pulled proximally to pivot the first and second channelstowards the elongate body.

In some embodiments, the string is attached to a first end of the firstchannel and a second end of the second channel.

In certain embodiments, the string passes through the elongate body.

In another aspect, a method of preparing an implantable device fordeployment includes accessing a loading device that is assembled withthe implantable device and with a carrier member that surrounds a shaftof the implantable device. The loading device includes an elongate bodysupporting the carrier member, a first channel extending in a firstdirection from the elongate body and surrounding a first arm of theimplantable device, and a second channel extending in a second, oppositedirection from the elongate body and surrounding a second arm of theimplantable device. The method further includes pivoting the first andsecond channels towards the elongate body respectively to move the firstand second arms into a collapsed state against the shaft and placing thecarrier member over the first and second arms to retain the first andsecond arms within the carrier member.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, sliding the carrier member over the first andsecond arms includes sliding the carrier member distally along theelongate body.

In certain embodiments, the loading device further includes a receptaclethat extends from the elongate body and retains the carrier memberagainst the elongate body.

In some embodiments, the method further includes lifting the carriermember, with the first and second arms of the implantable deviceretained therein, from the receptacle to remove the implantable devicefrom the loading device.

In certain embodiments, the loading device further includes a stringattached to a first end of the first channel and to a second end of thesecond channel.

In some embodiments, pivoting the first and second channels towards theelongate body respectively to move the first and second arms into acollapsed state against the shaft includes pulling the string proximallyto pivot the first and second channels towards the elongate body.

In certain embodiments, the method further includes compressing a springthat abuts a proximal end of the loading device.

In some embodiments, the method further includes moving the loadingdevice proximally against the spring.

In certain embodiments, the method further includes inserting thecarrier member, carrying the implantable device with the first andsecond arms in the collapsed state, into a patient.

In some embodiments, the method further includes pulling the carriermember proximally with respect to the implantable device to release thefirst and second arms from the collapsed state.

In certain embodiments, the method further includes pushing the carriermember distally with respect to the implantable device to position theimplantable device within the patient.

In some embodiments, the implantable device is an intrauterine device,and the carrier member includes an insertion tube.

In another aspect, a packaging system includes a loading device forsecuring an implantable device to a carrier member and a tray supportingthe loading device. The loading device includes an elongate bodyconfigured to support the carrier member, the carrier member surroundinga shaft of the implantable device, a first channel extending in a firstdirection from the elongate body and configured to receive a first armof the implantable device that extends from the shaft, and a secondchannel extending in a second direction from the elongate body andconfigured to receive a second arm of the implantable device thatextends from the shaft, the second direction being opposite the firstdirection. The first and second channels are pivotable towards theelongate body respectively to move the first and second arms into acollapsed state against the shaft in which the first and second arms canbe retained within the carrier member.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the implantable device is an intrauterine device,and the carrier member includes an insertion tube.

In certain embodiments, the tray includes a first pair of flanges thatsecure the receptacle of the loading device to the tray.

In some embodiments, the tray includes a second pair of flanges thatsecure a distal end of the elongate body to the tray.

In certain embodiments, the tray defines a slot sized to accommodate thecarrier member.

In some embodiments, the tray defines a inclined surface along which thefirst and second channels of the loading device can be pivoted.

In certain embodiments, the first and second channels are substantiallyperpendicular to the elongate body in an initial state.

In some embodiments, the first and second channels are pivotable to foldthe first and second arms into the collapsed state against the shaft toreduce a width of the implantable device such that the carrier membercan further surround the first and second arms.

In certain embodiments, the first and second channels are pivotablerespectively at first and second hinges along the elongate body.

In some embodiments, the loading device further includes a receptacleextending from the elongate body and configured to retain the carriermember against the elongate body.

In certain embodiments, the receptacle includes flanges that areconfigured to retain the carrier member against the elongate body.

In some embodiments, the receptacle is configured to retain the carriermember in a slidable state against the elongate body

In certain embodiments, the packaging system further includes a stringthat can be pulled proximally to pivot the first and second channelstowards the elongate body.

In some embodiments, the string is attached to a first end of the firstchannel and a second end of the second channel.

In certain embodiments, the string passes through the elongate body.

In some embodiments, the system further includes a spring that abuts aproximal end of the elongate body.

In certain embodiments, compression of the spring in a proximaldirection permits proximal movement of the loading device against thespring.

In another aspect, a tray for securing an implantable device to acarrier member includes a first slot configured to retain the carriermember, wherein the carrier member surrounds a shaft of the implantabledevice. The tray further includes a first receptacle adjacent the slotand having a first width to receive first and second arms of theimplantable device in an initial state in which the first and secondarms extend substantially perpendicularly from the shaft. The trayfurther includes a second receptacle adjacent the first receptacle andhaving a second width for receiving the first and second arms of theimplantable device in a collapsed state in which the first and secondarms are folded against the shaft such that the carrier member can beslid over the first and second arms to retain the first and second arms,the second width being less than the first width.

In another aspect, a method of preparing an implantable device fordeployment includes accessing a tray that is assembled with theimplantable device and a with a carrier member that surrounds a shaft ofthe implantable device. The tray includes a first slot configured toretain the carrier member, a first receptacle adjacent the slot andhaving a first width to receive first and second arms of the implantabledevice in an initial state in which the first and second arms extendsubstantially perpendicularly from the shaft, and a second receptacleadjacent the first receptacle and having a second width for receivingthe first and second arms of the implantable device in a collapsed statein which the first and second arms are folded against the shaft. Themethod further includes moving the implantable device distally from thefirst receptacle into the second receptacle, causing the first andsecond arms of the implantable device to move from the initial state tothe collapsed state, and sliding the carrier member distally along thefirst slot and over the first and second arms to retain the first andsecond arms within the carrier member.

In another aspect, a tray for securing an implantable device to acarrier member includes a slot configured to retain the carrier memberand a receptacle adjacent the slot. The carrier member surrounds a shaftof the implantable device. The receptacle has a first width at aproximal end of the receptacle to receive first and second arms of theimplantable device in an initial state in which the first and secondarms extend substantially perpendicularly from the shaft. The receptaclehas a second width at a distal end of the receptacle for receiving thefirst and second arms of the implantable device in a collapsed state inwhich the first and second arms are folded against the shaft such thatthe carrier member can be slid over the first and second arms to retainthe first and second arms. The second width is less than the firstwidth.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the tray defines one or more flanges configured tosecure the carrier member to the tray.

In certain embodiments, the tray includes a main body defining the slotand a loading aid defining the receptacle, the loading aid being coupledto a distal portion of the main body.

In some embodiments, the loading aid includes a first wall and a secondwall opposite the first wall. The first and second walls are formed toguide the first and second arms of the implantable device into thecollapsed state upon distal movement of the implantable device withinthe receptacle

In certain embodiments, the receptacle has a tapered shape.

In some embodiments, the implantable device includes an intrauterinedevice, and the carrier member includes an insertion tube.

In certain embodiments, the receptacle is a first receptacle, and thetray further defines a second receptacle adjacent the slot and oppositethe first receptacle, the second receptacle being configured to receivea handle that is coupled to the carrier member

In some embodiments, the second receptacle is longer than the handle topermit distal movement of the handle within the second receptacle.

In certain embodiments, the tray further defines a gripping regionpositioned along the slot, the gripping region being wider than theslot.

In some embodiments, the tray includes ruler markings adjacent thegripping region, the ruler markings indicating respective uterinedepths.

In certain embodiments, the tray includes a first support body definingthe receptacle and a second support body slidably coupled to the firstsupport body.

In some embodiments, the first support body defines an elongate platformslidably coupled to the second support body and a shoulder configured toprevent distal movement of the second support body relative to the firstsupport body beyond the shoulder.

In certain embodiments, distal movement of the second support bodyrelative to the first support body causes the implantable device to movedistally within the receptacle from the proximal end of the receptacleto the distal end of the receptacle to cause the first and second armsof the implantable device to move from the initial state into thecollapsed state.

In another aspect, a packaging system includes a tray for securing animplantable device to a carrier member and a protective cover formedcomplementary to at least a portion of the tray for securing a handlethat is coupled to the carrier member to the tray. The tray includes aslot configured to retain the carrier member and a receptacle adjacentthe slot. The carrier member surrounds a shaft of the implantabledevice. The receptacle has a first width at a proximal end of thereceptacle to receive first and second arms of the implantable device inan initial state in which the first and second arms extend substantiallyperpendicularly from the shaft. The receptacle has a second width at adistal end of the receptacle for receiving the first and second arms ofthe implantable device in a collapsed state in which the first andsecond arms are folded against the shaft such that the carrier membercan be slid over the first and second arms to retain the first andsecond arms. The second width is less than the first width.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the tray defines one or more flanges configured tosecure the carrier member to the tray.

In certain embodiments, the tray includes a main body defining the slotand a loading aid defining the receptacle, the loading aid being coupledto a distal portion of the main body.

In some embodiments, the loading aid includes a first wall and a secondwall opposite the first wall. The first and second walls are formed toguide the first and second arms of the implantable device into thecollapsed state upon distal movement of the implantable device withinthe receptacle.

In certain embodiments, the receptacle has a tapered shape.

In some embodiments, the tray further defines a gripping regionpositioned along the slot, the gripping region being wider than theslot.

In another aspect, a method of preparing an implantable device fordeployment includes accessing a tray that is assembled with theimplantable device and with a carrier member that surrounds a shaft ofthe implantable device. The tray defines a slot configured to retain thecarrier member and a receptacle adjacent the slot. The carrier membersurrounds a shaft of the implantable device. The receptacle has a firstwidth at a proximal end of the receptacle to receive first and secondarms of the implantable device in an initial state in which the firstand second arms extend substantially perpendicularly from a shaft of theimplantable device. The receptacle has a second width at a distal end ofthe receptacle for receiving the first and second arms of theimplantable device in a collapsed state in which the first and secondarms are folded against the shaft. The second width is less than thefirst width. The method further includes moving the implantable devicedistally from the proximal end of the receptacle to the distal end ofthe receptacle, causing the first and second arms of the implantabledevice to move from the initial state to the collapsed state, andsliding the carrier member distally along the slot and over the firstand second arms to retain the first and second arms within the carriermember.

The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth inthe accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features,objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thedescription and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an intrauterine device (IUD) positionedin a uterus of a patient.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a packaging system thathouses the IUD of FIG. 1 and an insertion tube.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the packaging system ofFIG. 2 .

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a loading device of the packaging systemof FIG. 2 .

FIG. 5 is a front view of the loading device of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the loadingdevice of FIG. 4 .

FIGS. 7-11 illustrate a method of using the packaging system of FIG. 2to secure the IUD of FIG. 1 to the insertion tube of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the IUD of FIG. 1 secured to theinsertion tube of FIG. 2 in a folded configuration.

FIGS. 13-15 illustrate a method of implanting the IUD of FIG. 1 into theuterus of a patient using the insertion tube of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portion of a packaging system forsecuring the IUD of FIG. 1 to the insertion tube of FIG. 2 .

FIGS. 17-20 illustrate a method of securing the IUD of FIG. 1 to theinsertion tube of FIG. 2 using the packaging system of FIG. 16 .

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a portion of a packaging system thathouses the IUD of FIG. 1 along with the insertion tube of FIG. 2 .

FIGS. 22-24 illustrate a method of securing the IUD of FIG. 1 to theinsertion tube of FIG. 2 using the packaging system of FIG. 21 .

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a loading device for securing the IUDof FIG. 1 to the insertion tube of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a packaging system for securing the IUDof FIG. 1 to the insertion tube of FIG. 2 .

FIGS. 27-29 illustrate a method of securing the IUD of FIG. 1 to theinsertion tube of FIG. 2 using the packaging system of FIG. 26 .

FIG. 30 is a top view of the distal portion of the packaging system ofFIG. 26 .

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a packaging system for securing the IUDof FIG. 1 to the insertion tube of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 32 is an exploded perspective view of the packaging system of FIG.31 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an intrauterine device (IUD) 100 positioned within auterus 102 of a patient. When implanted in the uterus 102 of thepatient, the IUD 100 acts as a contraceptive device for preventingpregnancy. The IUD 100 includes a shaft 104 and a pair of arms 106, 108extending from the shaft 104. As shown in FIG. 1 , when the IUD 100 isproperly positioned within the uterus 102, the arms 106, 108 of the IUD100 are substantially perpendicular to the shaft 104 and are positionedalong a wall (e.g., a fundus) of the uterus 102.

The IUD 100 also includes a copper wire 112 that is secured to the shaft104 and copper collars 114, 116 that are respectively secured to thearms 106, 108 of the IUD 100. For example, the copper wire 112 andcopper collars 114, 116 can release copper into the uterus 102, wheresuch copper functions as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy in thepatient. The IUD 100 can remain in the uterus 102 for an extended period(e.g., up to about 10 years) and provides continuous contraception whilethe IUD 100 is positioned within the uterus 102.

The IUD 100 also includes one or more threads 110 extending from an endof the shaft 104 that is opposite from the arms 106, 108. The threads110 can be manipulated to remove the IUD 100 from the uterus 102. Insome examples, the threads 110 are trimmed to a shorter length followingimplantation of the IUD 100 in the uterus 102. In some examples, theshaft 104 of the IUD 100 has a length of about 3.1 cm to about 3.3 cm(e.g., about 3.20 cm) and a diameter of about 0.14 cm to about 0.17 cm(e.g., about 0.152 cm). In some examples, each of the arms 106, 108 ofthe IUD 100 has a length of about 1.52 cm to about 1.53 cm (e.g., about1.524 cm) and a diameter of about 0.15 cm to about 0.17 cm (e.g., about0.157 cm). Example materials from which the IUD 100 may be made includepolypropylene and copper.

FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate a packaging system 200 that houses the IUD 100and an insertion tube 202 that can be used to implant the IUD 100 withinthe uterus 102 the patient. The insertion tube 202 is marked with ruledmarkings 262 and is equipped with a movable indicator 260, as will bediscussed in more detail below. The packaging system 200 also houses arod 235 that is positioned within the insertion tube 202 and that isused to implant the IUD 100, which also be discussed in more detailbelow.

The packaging system 200 includes a tray 206, a loading device 204 thatis secured to the tray 206, and a lid (not shown) that covers the tray206. The loading device 204 can be used to secure the IUD 100 to theinsertion tube 202 for implanting the IUD 100 within the uterus 102 ofthe patient. The loading device 204 includes an elongate body 220, areceptacle 212 that extends from one end of the elongate body 220, andtwo arms 236, 238 that extend substantially perpendicular from anopposite end of the elongate body 220 in an initial configuration, aswill be discussed in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 4-6 . Thetray 206 includes a first pair of flanges 208, 210 that secure thereceptacle 212 of the loading device 204 to the tray 206 and a secondpair of flanges 214, 216 that secure a distal end 218 of the elongatebody 220 of the loading device 204 to the tray 206 in a pre-packagedconfiguration. The loading device 204 can be removed from the tray 206without damaging the loading device 204 or the tray 206.

As depicted in FIG. 2 , the tray 206 defines a slot 222 thataccommodates the insertion tube 202. The slot 222 is sized to allow theinsertion tube 202 to move axially within the slot 222 along the lengthof the slot 222 and to substantially restrict lateral movement theinsertion tube 202 within the slot 222. The slot 222 also definesopposing flanges 290, 292 (shown in FIG. 9 ) that narrow an opening ofthe slot 222 to prevent the insertion tube 202 from popping out of theslot 222. In some examples, the slot 222 has a length of about 2.7 cm toabout 3.1 cm (e.g., about 2.90 cm), a width of about 0.48 cm to about0.53 cm (e.g., about 0.51 cm), and a depth of about 0.63 cm to about0.68 cm (e.g., about 0.66 cm).

The tray 206 further defines a recessed region 224 along the slot 222that provides space for a user's fingers to access (e.g., grip) theinsertion tube 202. For example, a healthcare provider can grasp aportion of the insertion tube 202 positioned within the gripping region224 with his or her fingers and slide the insertion tube 202 distallyalong the slot 222 over folded arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100, as will bediscussed in more detail below with respect to FIGS. 9 and 10 . In someexamples, the gripping region 224 defined within the tray 206 has alength of about 4.2 cm to about 4.4 cm (e.g., about 4.31 cm), a width ofabout 3.9 cm to about 4.1 cm (e.g., about 4.00 cm), and a depth of about0.9 cm to about 1.0 cm (e.g., about 0.95 cm). In some examples, aproximal end 226 of the gripping region 224 is positioned about 5.2 cmto about 5.4 cm (e.g., about 5.27 cm) apart from a proximal end 228 ofthe tray 206.

The tray 206 further defines a circular depression 230 adjacent the slot222 and adjacent the proximal end 228 of the tray 206. The circulardepression 230 accommodates a circular end portion 232 of a rod 235 thatextends within the insertion tube 202 from the end portion 232 to aproximal end of the shaft 104 of the IUD. The rod 235 is used to assistwith positioning the IUD 100 within the uterus 102. In some examples,the circular depression 230 defined within the tray 206 has an outerdiameter of about 2.2 cm to about 2.4 cm (e.g., about 2.26 cm), a depthof about 0.5 cm to about 0.7 cm (e.g., about 0.58 cm), and a width(e.g., the distance from an outer wall of the circular depression 230 toan inner wall of the circular depression 230) of about 0.2 cm to about0.4 cm (e.g., about 0.27 cm).

Still referring to FIG. 2 , the tray 206 also defines a inclined surface234 that supports the loading device 204. The inclined surface 234provides a recessed region that allows for pivoting of the arms 236, 238of the loading device 204 in order to fold the arms 106, 108 of the IUD100 inward, as will be discussed in more detail below with respect toFIGS. 4-8 . The inclined surface 234 includes an upper portion 240 and alower portion 242. The upper portion 240 of the inclined surface 234 hasa generally semicircular shape, and the lower portion 242 of theinclined surface 234 has a generally rectangular shape. In someexamples, the lower portion 242 of the inclined surface 234 has a lengthof about 5.3 cm to about 5.5 cm (e.g., about 5.39 cm) and a width ofabout 4.4 cm to about 4.7 cm (e.g., about 4.56 cm). In some examples,the lower portion 242 is oriented at an angle of about 164 degrees toabout 174 degrees (e.g., about 169 degrees) with respect to the upperportion 240.

The tray 206 is typically made of one or more polymer materials. Examplematerials from which the tray 206 can be made include polystyrene,polypropylene, and PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol), ABS(acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), HDPE (high density polyethylene),LDPE (low density polyethylene). Example processes for forming the tray206 include injection molding, vacuum forming, pressure forming, and diecut cards. In some examples, the tray 206 has a total length of about28.3 cm to about 29.9 cm (e.g., about 29.1 cm), a total width of about22.6 cm to about 24.2 cm (e.g., about 23.4 cm), and a total height ofabout 0.9 cm to about 1.1 cm (e.g., about 0.98 cm).

Referring to FIG. 3 , the packaging system 200 also may include aninsert 302 for helping to retain the IUD 100 against the loading device204. The insert 302 includes a proximal body 316, a distal body 304, anda pair of projections 306, 308 extending from a distal end 310 of thedistal body 304. The insert 302 helps prevent movement and dislodgementof the IUD 100 from the loading device 204 during transit of thepackaging system 200 and prior to preparation of the IUD 100 forimplantation. The arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 are positioned withinchannels 244, 246 defined by the arms 236, 238 of the loading device204. The distal body 304 of the insert 302 can be positioned over theshaft 104 of the IUD 100, and each of the projections 306, 308 of theinsert 302 can be positioned under a respective arm 106, 108 of the IUD100 to prevent the arms 106, 108 from sliding out of the channels 244,246 prior to preparation of the IUD 100 for implantation. The insert 302is removed from the tray 206 prior to preparing the IUD 100 forimplantation to allow for movement and folding of the arms 106, 108 ofthe IUD 100. For example, the insert 302 can be removed from the tray206 by pulling proximally on a proximal end 314 of the proximal body 316to slide the insert 302 proximally away from the loading device 204 andthus slide the projections 306, 308 of the insert 302 out from under thearms 106, 108 of the IUD 100.

The insert 302 can include one or both of written and graphicalinstructions 318 for preparing the IUD 100 for implantation. As shown inFIG. 3 , the instructions 318 for preparing the IUD 100 may be printedon the proximal body 316 of the insert 302, or in other cases, theinstructions 318 may be printed on the distal body 304 of the insert 302

The insert 302 is typically transparent in appearance. For example,either or both of the proximal body 316 and the distal body 304 of theinsert 302 is typically made of one or more plastic materials, such ashigh impact polystyrene (HIPS), polyethylene terephthalate glycol,acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high density polyethylene (HDPE),or one or more paper materials. In some examples, the insert 302 ismanufactured using one or more processes, such as thermoforming,die-cutting and injection molding and heat staking. The distal andproximal bodies 304, 316 of the insert 302 typically have a combinedlength of about 27.0 cm to about 27.3 cm (e.g., about 27.13 cm), a widthof about 4.2 cm to about 4.4 cm (e.g., about 4.32 cm), and a thicknessof about 0.03 cm to about 0.05 cm (e.g., about 0.04 cm). Each of theprojections 306, 308 typically has a length of about 1.3 cm to about 1.5cm (e.g., about 1.44 cm), a width of about 1.4 cm to about 1.6 cm (e.g.,about 1.51 cm), and a thickness of about 0.03 cm to about 0.05 cm (e.g.,about 0.04 cm).

FIGS. 4-6 illustrate various views of the loading device 204 forsecuring the IUD 100 to the insertion tube 202. As depicted in FIGS. 4and 5 , the loading device 204 is generally T-shaped. As described abovewith respect to FIG. 2 , the loading device 204 includes the elongatebody 220, the arms 236, 238, and the receptacle 212. The elongate body220 extends along the length of the shaft 104 of the IUD 100. The pairof arms 236, 238 extend from the distal end 218 of the elongate body220, and the receptacle 212 is positioned at the end of the elongatebody 220, opposite the arms 236, 238, as discussed above. In someexamples, the elongate body 220 has a maximum width of about 0.2 cm toabout 0.5 cm (e.g., about 0.44 cm) and a length of about 1.9 cm to about9.5 cm (e.g., about 3.25 cm).

The arms 236, 238 respectively extend from the distal end 218 of theelongate body 220 at flexible locations 254, 256 (e.g., hinges). Asdepicted in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the arms 236, 238 are each substantiallyperpendicular to the elongate body 220 in an initial configuration(e.g., in a packaged state). In some embodiments, the arms 236, 238 arepositioned at an obtuse angle with respect to the elongate body 220. Forexample, the arms 236, 238 are typically oriented at an angle about 90degrees to about 120 degrees (e.g., about 90 degrees) relative to alongitudinal axis 280 of the elongate body 220 in the initialconfiguration. In some examples, each arm 236, 238 has a total width ofabout 0.02 cm to about 0.50 cm (e.g., about 0.19 cm), a length of about2.1 cm to about 2.3 cm (e.g., about 2.18 cm), and a total height ofabout 0.5 cm to about 1.0 cm (e.g., about 0.72 cm). The arms 236, 238provide relatively large contact surfaces (e.g., the upper surfaces ofthe arms 236, 238) for the user's fingers as compared to surfaces of thearms 106, 108 of the IUD 100. The large contact surfaces of the arms236, 238 provide gripping regions that facilitate manipulation of thearms 106, 108 by the user, as compared to manipulation of the arms 106,108 by conventional means of direct contact with the arms 106, 108.

The arms 236, 238 respectively define channels 244, 246 along thelengths of the arms 236, 238. As depicted in FIG. 4 , the channels 244,246 respectively surround the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 when the IUD100 is positioned on the loading device 204 in the packaged state. Thearm 236 includes flanges 248 a, 248 b that in part define the channel244. Similarly, the arm 238 includes flanges 250 a, 250 b that in partdefine the channel 246. With the proximal end of the shaft 104 supportedby the rod 235 and the insertion tube 202, and with the arms 106, 108positioned within the channels 244, 246, a position of the IUD 100 issubstantially maintained along the loading device 204 with limitedmovement during preparation of the IUD 100 for implantation, which willbe discussed in more detail below. Furthermore, the channels 244, 246are sized such that the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 can be easilyreleased from the channels 244, 246 when necessary during preparation ofthe IUD 100 for implantation, as will be discussed in more detail below.As shown in FIG. 4 , the arms 106, 108 extend past ends of the channels244, 246. In some examples, each of the channels 244, 246 has a width ofabout 0.9 cm to about 1.0 cm (e.g., about 0.94 cm), a height of about0.4 cm to about 0.5 cm (e.g., about 0.42 cm), and a depth of about 0.2cm to about 0.3 cm (e.g., about 0.28 cm).

As depicted in FIGS. 4 and 5 , each of the arms 236, 238 are pivotablyattached to the elongate body 220 by a respective flexible location 254,256. The flexible locations 254, 256 permit the arms 236, 238 to pivotradially inward towards the elongate body 220. For example, the flexiblelocations 254, 256 allow the arms 236, 238 to be moved between aposition substantially perpendicular to the elongate body 220 and aposition substantially parallel to the elongate body 220. Whensufficient rotationally directed forces are applied to the arms 236,238, the flexible locations 254, 256 deform to permit the arms 236, 238to fold inward towards the elongate body 220. The flexible locations254, 256 are flexible such that the flexible locations 254, 256 canremain functional (e.g., substantially mechanically intact) overmultiple pivoting movements of the arms 236, 238 (e.g., such that thearms 236, 238 can be pivoted at least three times while the flexiblelocations 254, 256 remain intact). In some examples, each of theflexible locations 254, 256 has a width of about 0.1 cm to about 0.2 cm(e.g., about 0.16 cm), a height of about 0.7 cm to about 1.0 cm (e.g.,about 0.72 cm), and a thickness of about 0.02 cm to about 0.06 cm (e.g.,about 0.04 cm).

The receptacle 212 defines a channel 252 that supports the insertiontube 202. For example, the channel 252 is formed to prevent theinsertion tube 202 from falling out or otherwise becoming dislodged fromthe receptacle 212 during transportation of the packaging system 200.The channel 252 is sized to permit the insertion tube 202 to slideaxially within the channel 252 while restricting lateral movement of theinsertion tube 202. For example, a healthcare provider can use his orher fingers to slide the insertion tube 202 along the channel 252 of thereceptacle 212 to cover ends of the arms 236, 238 of the IUD 100 whenthe arms 236, 238 are in a folded state, as will be discussed in moredetail below. The channel 252 is sized and shaped such that theinsertion tube 202 can be detached from the loading device 204 withoutdamaging the insertion tube 202 or the loading device 204. For example,the insertion tube 202 can be pulled upward from the receptacle 212 toremove the insertion tube 202 from the loading device 204 when needed.In some examples, the channel 252 has an interior width of about 0.4 cmto about 0.5 cm (e.g., about 0.45 cm), a length of about 1.1 cm to about1.3 cm (e.g., about 1.19 cm), and a depth of about 0.4 cm to about 0.5cm (e.g., about 0.45 cm).

As depicted in FIGS. 4-6 , the channel 252 is defined by a pair offlanges 282, 284 on the receptacle 212. The flanges 282, 284 define anelongate opening 286 of the channel 252 that is narrower than a width ofthe insertion tube 202, such that the flanges 282, 284 retain theinsertion tube 202 within the channel 252 during transit and preparationof the IUD 100 for implantation. In some examples, each of the flanges282, 284 of the receptacle 212 has a width (excluding protrusions 268,270) of about 0.1 cm to about 0.3 cm (e.g., about 0.20 cm), a length ofabout 0.9 cm to about 1.1 cm (e.g., about 1.01 cm), and a height ofabout 0.3 cm to about 0.4 cm (e.g., about 0.37 cm). In some examples,the elongate opening 286 has a width of about 0.4 cm to about 0.5 cm(e.g., about 0.45 cm).

The flanges 282, 284 respectively define protrusions 268, 270 along theelongate opening 286 of the channel 252 that help to retain theinsertion tube 202 in the channel 252. As depicted in FIG. 6 , theprotrusions 268, 270 are offset from each other along the length of thechannel 252. In some examples, each of the protrusions 268, 270 has alength of about 0.2 cm to about 0.4 cm (e.g., about 0.3 cm), and axialcenters of the protrusions 268, 270 are offset from each other by adistance of about 0.1 cm to about 0.4 cm (e.g., about 0.39 cm).

The loading device 204 is typically made of one or more materials thatare sufficiently compliant and resistant to plastic deformation to allowfor repeated bending of the flexible locations 254, 256. For example,such materials may behave more rigidly in a relatively thicker crosssection of the elongate body 220 and behave more elastically in arelatively thinner cross sections at the flexible locations 254, 256.Accordingly, the loading device 204 is typically made of one or morepolymer materials, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, andthermoplastic elastomers (e.g., vulcanized ethylene propylene dienemonomer (EPDM) rubber). Example processes for manufacturing the loadingdevice 204 include injection molding, plastic machining, and 3Dprinting.

FIGS. 7-11 illustrate a method of securing the IUD 100 to the insertiontube 202 using the packaging system 200. As previously discussed, theIUD 100 is packaged with the arms 106, 108 within the channels 244, 246of the arms 236, 238 of the loading device 204 and with the shaft 104extending into the insertion tube 202. The insertion tube 202 is itselfsecured in the receptacle 212 of the loading device 204 and in the slot222 of the tray 206, and the rod 235 extends within the insertion tube202 to the proximal end of the shaft 104 of the IUD 100.

Referring to FIG. 7 , a user (e.g., a healthcare provider) can use hisor her fingers to push the arms 236, 238 of the loading device 204(e.g., with the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 positioned therein) inwardstowards the elongate body 220 to fold the arms 106, 108 towards theshaft 104 of the IUD 100.

Referring to FIG. 8 , the user maintains a force against the arms 236,238 (e.g., squeezes the arms 236, 238 together) until the arms 236, 238are substantially parallel to the elongate body 220 such that the arms106, 108 of the IUD 100 are collapsed against the shaft 104 of the IUD100. For example, when the channels 244, 246 of the arms 236, 238 arepositioned substantially parallel to the elongate body 220, the arms106, 108 of the IUD 100 are folded against and substantially parallel tothe shaft 104 of the IUD 100.

Referring to FIG. 9 , once the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 are foldedagainst the shaft 104 of the IUD 100, the insertion tube 202 is moveddistally along the slot 222 of the tray 206 and the channel 252 of thereceptacle 212 towards the IUD 100. For example, the user can grasp aportion of the insertion tube 202 positioned within the recessedgripping region 224 of the tray 206 and slide the insertion tube 202distally towards the loading device 204 while maintaining the arms 236,238 parallel to the elongate body 220. The insertion tube 202 is sliddistally until the distal end of the insertion tube 202 slides overproximal ends of the folded arms 106, 108 that extend past ends of thechannels 244, 246 of the arms 236, 238 of the loading device 204.

Referring to FIG. 10 , sliding the insertion tube 202 over the arms 106,108 of the IUD 100 captures and maintains the arms 106, 108 in thefolded positions against the shaft 104. Once the insertion tube 202 hasbeen positioned over the arms 106, 108, the user can release the arms236, 238 of the loading device 204 from his or her fingers to allow thearms 236, 238 to flexibly pivot away from the IUD 100. If one or both ofthe arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 are not appropriately positioned withinthe insertion tube 202 at this point, then the user can slide theinsertion tube 202 proximally back towards an initial position, and theprocess described with respect to FIGS. 7-10 can be repeated until theproximal ends of the arms 106, 108 of the IUD are securely positionedwithin the insertion tube 202.

Referring to FIG. 11 , once the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 are securedwithin the insertion tube 202, the insertion tube 202, carrying the IUD100, is removed from sequentially from the tray 206 and from the loadingdevice 204. For example, the user can grasp a portion of the insertiontube 202 positioned in the gripping region 224 with his or her fingersand lift the insertion tube 202 out of the slot 222 in the tray 206 andout of the receptacle 212 of the loading device 204. Since the arms 106,108 of the IUD 100 are secured to the insertion tube 202, the IUD 100 isalso removed along with the insertion tube 202.

Referring to FIG. 12 , the IUD 100 is now prepared for implantation(e.g., deployment) within the patient. As depicted, the arms 106, 108 ofthe prepared IUD 100 are folded against the shaft 104 of the IUD 100,and a portion of each of the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 is containedwithin the insertion tube 202. Furthermore, a portion of the shaft 104of the IUD 100 is also captured within the insertion tube 202.

FIGS. 13-15 illustrate a method of implanting the IUD 100 into theuterus 102 of the patient using the insertion tube 202 and the rod 235(e.g., positioned within the insertion tube 202). Prior to inserting theIUD 100 into the uterus 102, the depth of the uterus 102 (e.g., of theuterine cavity) is measured by inserting a sterile uterine sound intothe uterus 102. The measurement indicator 260 is moved along theinsertion tube 202 to be aligned with a ruler marking 262 on theinsertion tube 202 that corresponds to the depth measurement determinedusing the uterine sound. When the IUD 100 is properly positioned at thefundus 134 of the uterus 102, the measurement indicator 260 ispositioned against (e.g., abuts) the cervix 186 of the patient, asdepicted in FIG. 13 . In this manner, the measurement indicator 260ensures proper positioning of the insertion tube 202 and the IUD 100within the uterus 102. Once the measurement indicator 260 is alignedwith the proper ruler marking 262, the rod 235 (e.g., already positionedwithin the insertion tube 202) is adjusted to contact the proximal endof the shaft 104 of the IUD 100.

Referring to FIG. 13 , the insertion tube 202, carrying the IUD 100, ispassed through the cervical canal into the uterus 102 until the IUD 100touches the fundus 134 of the uterus. When the distal end of the IUD 100is properly positioned against the fundus 134 of the uterus 102, themeasurement indicator 260 abuts the cervix 186 of the patient, asdepicted in FIG. 13 .

Referring to FIG. 14 , once the insertion tube 202 is positioned in thecervical canal such that the exposed end of the IUD 100 is touching thefundus 134 of the uterus, the insertion tube 202 is pulled proximallyaway from the IUD 100 until the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 arereleased from the insertion tube 202. The rod 235 inside of theinsertion tube 202 is held steady while the insertion tube 202 is pulledproximally to release the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100. For example, theinsertion tube 202 may be pulled proximally until the proximal end ofthe insertion tube 202 contacts the end portion 232 (shown in FIG. 2 )of the rod 235. In some examples, the insertion tube 202 is pulledproximally by a distance of about 0.4 cm to about 0.6 cm (e.g., about0.5 cm) to release the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100.

Referring to FIG. 15 , once the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 arereleased from the insertion tube 202, the insertion tube 202 is moveddistally further into the uterus 102 to push the IUD 100 towards thefundus 134 to ensure that the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 are placed atthe deepest position in the uterus 102 (e.g., against the fundus 134 ofthe uterus 102).

After ensuring proper placement of the IUD 100 in the uterus 102, therod (235 and the insertion tube 202 are removed from the cervical canalof the patient. In some examples, the rod 235 is first removed from thepatient while the insertion tube 202 is held steady, and the insertiontube 202 is then removed after removing the rod 235. In some examples,after removal of the insertion tube 202 from the patient, the one ormore threads 110 (shown in FIG. 1 ) coupled to the shaft 104 aretrimmed. In some implementations, the threads of the IUD 100 are trimmedso that a length of about 1.5 cm to about 2.0 cm (e.g., about 2.0 cm) ofthe one or more threads extend out the cervical canal and into thevagina of the patient.

While certain embodiments have been described above, other embodimentsare possible. For example, while the packaging system 200 for securingan intrauterine device 100 to an insertion tube 202 has been describedand illustrated as including a loading device 204 with pivotable arms236, 238, in some embodiments, a system that is similar in function tothe system 200 includes a one or more receptacles sized to fold the arms106, 108 of an IUD 100 rather than a loading device 204 with pivotablearms 236, 238. Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17 , a packaging system 400that houses an IUD 100 is designed for securing the IUD 100 to aninsertion tube 202. The packaging system 400 includes a tray 406defining multiple depressions, including a slot 422, a first receptacle402, a second receptacle 404, a gripping region 424, and a proximaldepression 430. In some examples, the tray 406 has a length of about28.3 cm to about 29.9 cm (e.g., about 29.1 cm), a width of about 22.6 cmto about 24.2 cm (e.g., about 23.4 cm), and a height of about 0.9 cm toabout 1.1 cm (e.g., about 0.98 cm).

As depicted in FIG. 16 , the slot 422 extends along the length of thetray 406. The slot 422 accommodates an insertion tube 202 and restrictslateral movement and angular movement of the insertion tube 202 outsidethe slot 422. In some examples, the slot 422 has a length of about 2.9cm to about 3.4 cm (e.g., about 3.15 cm), a width of about 0.48 cm toabout 0.53 cm (e.g., about 0.51 cm), and a depth of about 0.63 cm toabout 0.68 cm (e.g., about 0.66 cm).

The tray 406 also include flanges 440, 442, 444, 446 positioned adjacentto the slot 422 along the length of the slot 422. The flanges 440, 442,444, 446 narrow an axial opening of the slot 422 to help retain theinsertion tube 202 in the slot 422 and prevent dislodgement of theinsertion tube 202 from the tray 406 during transit of the system 400prior to preparation of the IUD 100 for implantation. The insertion tube202 can be detached from the tray 406 without damaging the insertiontube 202 or the tray 406.

The tray 406 defines a first receptacle 402 located adjacent the distalend of the slot 422. The first receptacle 402 accommodates the arms 106,108 of the IUD 100 in an initial configuration (e.g., a packaged state)in which the arms 106, 108 are substantially perpendicular to the shaft104 of the IUD 100, as depicted in FIG. 17 . For example, a width 408 ofthe first receptacle 402 is larger than the distance between the end ofthe first arm 106 and the end of the second arm 108 when the arms 106,108 are substantially perpendicular to the shaft 104 of the IUD 100. Insome examples, the first receptacle 402 has a width of about 4.4 cm toabout 4.6 cm (e.g., about 4.50 cm), a length of about 1.4 cm to about1.6 cm (e.g., about 1.50 cm), and a depth of about 7.8 cm to about 7.9cm (e.g., about 7.85 cm).

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17 , the second receptacle 404 is locatedadjacent to the first receptacle 402 and to the distal end 410 of thetray 406. The second receptacle 404 has a minimum width 412 sized toreceive the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 in a collapsed or folded state(as depicted in FIG. 19 ). For example, the second receptacle 404 isformed as a generally triangular-shaped depression that narrows to thewidth 412 near the distal end 410 of tray 406. The shape of secondreceptacle 404 causes the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 to be pushedinwards towards the shaft 104 of the IUD 100 through contact withtapered walls 414, 416 of the second receptacle 404 as the IUD 100 ispushed distally through the second receptacle 404. The second receptacle404 also defines a floor 420 that supports the IUD 100 as the IUD ismoved distally along the second receptacle 404.

The gripping region 424 provides space for a user to grasp a portion ofthe insertion tube 202 positioned within the gripping region 424 withhis or her fingers and slide the insertion tube 202 distally along theslot 422 to capture the folded arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 within theinsertion tube 202. In some examples, the gripping region 424 definedwithin the tray 406 has a length of about 4.2 cm to about 4.4 cm (e.g.,about 4.31 cm), a width of about 3.9 cm to about 4.1 cm (e.g., about 4.0cm), and a depth of about 0.9 cm to about 1.0 cm (e.g., about 0.95 cm).In some examples, a proximal end 426 of the gripping region 224 ispositioned about 12.6 cm to about 12.8 cm (e.g., about 12.7 cm) apartfrom a proximal end 428 of the tray 406.

The tray 406 further defines a proximal depression 430 located near theproximal end 428 of the tray 406. The proximal depression 430accommodates the end portion 232 of a rod 235 used to push the IUD 100positioned in the first receptacle 402 through the second receptacle404. In some examples, the proximal depression 430 defined within thetray 406 has a length of about 4.8 cm to about 5.0 cm (e.g., about 4.9cm) and a depth of about 0.9 cm to about 1.0 cm (e.g., about 0.95 cm).In some examples, the width of the depression forming the proximaldepression 430 is about 3.9 cm to about 4.1 cm (e.g., about 4.0 cm).

FIGS. 17-19 illustrate a method of securing the IUD 100 to the insertiontube 202 using the packaging system 400. Referring to FIG. 17 , the arms106, 108 of the IUD 100 are substantially perpendicular to the shaft 104of the IUD 100 and are positioned within the first receptacle 402, withthe arms 106, 108 spanning the width 408 of the first receptacle 402, asdiscussed above. The rod 235 is positioned within the insertion tube 202and circular end portion 232 (e.g., a ring) is positioned within theproximal depression 430 to prevent movement of the rod 235. Theinsertion tube 202 is positioned within the slot 422 and is releasablecoupled to the tray 406 by flanges 440, 442, 444, 446.

Referring to FIG. 18 , the end portion 232 of the rod 235 is rotatedupwards to lift the end portion 232 out of the proximal depression 430so that the rod 235 can be advanced distally through the insertion tube202 towards the IUD 100 to apply a force to the end of the shaft 104 tomove the arms 106, 108 from the first receptacle 402 into the secondreceptacle 404. For example, the user can grasp the end portion 232 andpush the rod 235 through the insertion tube 202 to push the arms 106,108 of the IUD 100 distally into the second receptacle 404. As the rod235 pushes the arms 106, 108 into the second receptacle 404 along thefloor 420, the arms 106, 108 are pressed against the walls 414, 416,therefore causing the arms 106, 108 to fold inwards towards the shaft104.

Referring to FIG. 19 , the arms 106, 108 are pushed into a distal end ofthe second receptacle 404 to complete the folding of the arms 106, 108into a collapsed state against the shaft 104 of the IUD 100. Once thearms 106, 108 are folded against the shaft 104, the insertion tube 202is slid distally along the slot 422 and over proximal ends of the foldedarms 106, 108, as depicted in FIG. 19 .

Referring to FIG. 20 , once the insertion tube 202 is positioned overthe folded arms 106, 108 to maintain the collapsed state of the arms106, 108, the IUD 100, the insertion tube 202, and the rod 235 can beremoved from the tray 406 by lifting up on the insertion tube 202, andthe IUD 100 is ready for implantation in the uterus 102 of a patient.

The packaging system 200 has been described and illustrated with respectto a user pivoting the arms 236, 238 of the loading device 204 to foldthe arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 and sliding the insertion tube 202 overthe folded arms 106, 108. However, in some embodiments, a packagingsystem that is otherwise similar in construction and function to thepackaging system 200 includes a loading device with a string that isused to pivot arms of the loading device to fold the arms 106, 108 ofthe IUD 100 and to secure the folded arms 106, 108 into an insertiontube 202.

For example, as shown in FIG. 21 , such a packaging system 500 isdesigned to house an IUD 100 along with an insertion tube 202 and a rod235. The packaging system 500 includes a tray (not shown) that issimilar in structure and function to the tray 206, a lid (not shown)that covers the tray, and a loading device 504. The loading device 504is substantially similar in construction and function to the loadingdevice 204, except that the loading device 504 further includes a string502 (e.g., a suture, a wire, or another type of string) and an elongatebody 520 that defines an opening 512 for allowing passage of the string502. Accordingly, in addition to the elongate body 520, the loadingdevice 504 further includes the arms 236, 238 and the receptacle 212.

The string 502 is attached to the arms 236, 238 in a manner such thatmovement of the string 502 applies a force to the ends of the arms 236,238. For example, the string 502 may be secured to a top surface of thearms 236, 238 and pass over the ends the arms 236, 238, or the string502 may terminate at the ends of the arms 236, 238. The string 502 alsocrosses over itself and passes through the opening 512 in the elongatebody 220 to form a closed loop.

The packaging system 500 further includes a spring 506 that ispositioned parallel to the insertion tube 202 and that is retained bythe tray. A distal end of the spring 506 abuts the receptacle 212,thereby applying a distally directed force to the loading device 504that maintains the loading device 504 in place within the tray of thepackaging system 500 while the string 502 is pulled by the user, as willbe discussed in more detail below. Example materials from which thespring 506 can be made include steel, metal alloys, and plastic (e.g.,polyetherimides (PEI) and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)).

FIGS. 22-24 illustrate a method of securing the IUD 100 to the insertiontube 202 using the packaging system 500. Referring to FIG. 22 , the arms106, 108 of the IUD 100 are coupled to the channels 244, 246 of the arms236, 238 of the loading device 504, and the insertion tube 202 iscoupled to the receptacle 212 of the loading device 504. A user can pullproximally on a looped end 510 of the string 502 away from the loadingdevice 504 to pivot the arms 236, 238 of the loading device 504 inwardtowards the elongate body 520, thereby also folding the arms 106, 108 ofthe IUD 100 inward towards the shaft 104 of the IUD 100.

Referring to FIG. 23 , a proximally directed force is continuallyapplied to the looped end 510 of string 502 until the arms 236, 238 aresubstantially parallel to the elongate body 520 of the loading device504 and the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 are folded against the shaft104 of the IUD 100 in a collapsed configuration.

Referring to FIG. 24 , once the proximally directed force on the loopedend 510 of the string 502 overcomes the distally directed force exertedby the spring 506 on the loading device 504, the loading device 504moves proximally to compress the spring 506. The insertion tube 202 canbe held in place by the user while the user continues to pull the string502 such that the loading device 504 continues to move proximally,causing the ends of the folded arms 106, 108 to be drawn into theinsertion tube 202 to secure the IUD 100 to the insertion tube 202.

Once the folded arms 106, 108 are positioned within the insertion tube202, the user can release the string 502 to allow the arms 236, 238 topivot back towards the initial configuration, thereby releasing the IUD100 from the loading device 504. The insertion tube 202 can then belifted up from the tray. At this point, the IUD 100, secured to theinsertion tube 202, is ready for placement in the uterus of a patient.

While the loading devices 204, 504 have been described and illustratedas including arms 236, 238 that form channels 244, 246 for receivingarms 106, 108 of an IUD 100, in some embodiments, a loading device thatis similar in construction and function to the loading devices 204, 504can be formed without such channels. For example, FIG. 25 illustratessuch as loading device 604. The loading device 604 includes an elongatebody 620, a receptacle 612, and a pair of arms 636, 638.

The receptacle 612 is sized and shaped to receive an insertion tube 202and to restrict lateral movement of the insertion tube 202.

The arms 636, 638 respectively extend from the elongate body 620 atflexible locations 654, 656. The flexible locations 654, 656 aresubstantially similar in construction and function to the flexiblelocations 654, 656 such that arms 636, 638 are pivotable inward towardsthe elongate body 620 about the flexible locations 654, 656, asdescribed and illustrated with respect to the loading devices 204, 504.

Each of the arms 636, 638 includes a flange 606, 608 positioned toengage with the end of a respective arm 106, 108 of the IUD 100 when theIUD 100 is positioned within the loading device 604. For example, thedistance between each of the flanges 606, 608 is less than the distancebetween the ends of the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 when the arms 106,108 are substantially perpendicular to the shaft 104 of the IUD 100. Assuch, when the arms 636, 638 are pivoted inward, the flanges 606, 608push the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 inward to fold the arms 106, 108toward the shaft 104.

FIGS. 26 and 27 depict another example packaging system 700 thatincludes one or more receptacles formed to facilitate folding of thearms 106, 108 of an IUD 100 rather than a loading device 204 withpivotable arms 236, 238. For example, the packaging system 700 housesthe IUD 100 and is designed for securing the IUD 100 to an insertiontube 202. The packaging system 700 includes a tray 706 defining multipledepressions formed in either of a main body 790 of the tray 706 or aloading aid 760 of the tray. In some embodiments, the main body 790 andthe loading aid 760 are formed as two separate components that areassembled together during manufacture. In other embodiments, the tray706 is provided as a single, unitary component that integrally definesthe main body 790 and the loading aid 760. The depressions include adistal depression 702, a proximal depression 704, and a slot 722connecting the distal depression 702 and the proximal depression 704. Asdepicted in FIG. 27 , the slot 722 accommodates an insertion tube 202and restricts lateral movement and angular movement of the insertiontube 202 outside the slot 722.

As depicted in FIGS. 26 and 27 , the slot 722 can include a grippingregion 724 that is wider than the rest of the slot 722. The grippingregion 724 provides space for a user to grasp a cervical collar 128 thatis slidably coupled to the insertion tube 202 and positioned within thegripping region 724 when the insertion tube 202 is positioned within theslot 722. For example, when the insertion tube 202 is positioned in theslot 722, a user can grasp the cervical collar 128 positioned in thegripping region 724 with his or her fingers and slide the cervicalcollar 128 proximally or distally relative to the insertion tube 202until the cervical collar 128 corresponds to a depth measurementdetermined using a uterine sound.

For example, as can be seen in FIGS. 26 and 27 , the tray 706 can alsoinclude markings 762 indicating positions to place the cervical collar128 for corresponding to the depth measurement. For example, if apatient has a measured uterine depth of 8 cm, a user can grasp thecervical collar 128 positioned in the gripping region 724 of the slot722 with his or her fingers and slide the cervical collar 128 proximallyor distally relative to the insertion tube 202 until the cervical collar128 is aligned with the 8 cm marking 762 on the tray 706.

The tray 706 also includes flanges 740, 742, 744, 746 positionedadjacent to the slot 722 along the length of the slot 722. The flanges740, 742, 744, 746 narrow an axial opening of the slot 722 to helpretain the insertion tube 202 in the slot 722 and prevent dislodgementof the insertion tube 202 from the tray 706 during transit of the system700 prior to preparation of the IUD 100 for implantation. The insertiontube 202 can be detached from the tray 706 without damaging theinsertion tube 202 or the tray 706.

As depicted in FIGS. 26 and 27 , the loading aid 760 is coupled to thedistal portion 736 of the main body 790 of tray 706. The loading aid 760defines the distal depression 702 located adjacent the distal end of theslot 722. The proximal end 703 of the distal depression 702 accommodatesthe arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 in an initial configuration (e.g., apackaged state) in which the arms 106, 108 are substantiallyperpendicular to the shaft 104 of the IUD 100, as depicted in FIG. 27 .For example, a width of proximal end 703 of the distal depression 702 islarger than the distance between the end of the first arm 106 and theend of the second arm 108 when the arms 106, 108 are substantiallyperpendicular to the shaft 104 of the IUD 100. Referring to FIG. 30 ,the proximal end 703 of the distal depression 702 has a width p.

As depicted in FIGS. 26 and 27 , the loading aid 760 includes taperedwalls 714, 716 that result in the distal end 705 of the distaldepression 702 having a width that is narrower than the width of theproximal end 603 of the distal depression. The distal end 705 of thedistal depression 702 has a minimum width sized to receive the arms 106,108 of the IUD 100 in a collapsed or folded state (as depicted in FIG.19 ). For example, the distal depression 702 is formed as a generallytriangular-shaped depression that narrows to the width near the distalend 729 of tray 706. The tapered shape of distal depression 702 formedby the loading aid 760 causes the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 to bepushed inwards towards the shaft 104 of the IUD 100 through contact withwalls 714, 716 of the loading aid 760 as the IUD 100 is pushed distallythrough the distal depression 702. The tray 706 supports the IUD 100 asthe IUD 100 is moved distally along the distal depression 702.

The tray 706 further defines a proximal depression 704 located near theproximal end 728 of the tray 706. As depicted in FIG. 27 , the proximaldepression 704 is sized to accommodate an inserter handle 900 that isused to control movement of the insertion tube 202. For example, theinserter handle 900 includes a slider button 902 that can be used tocontrol proximal and distal movement of the insertion tube 202 relativeto the a rod 735 located within the insertion tube 202 and IUD 100 inorder to capture and release the IUD 100 from the insertion tube 202.The rod 735 is substantially similar in construction and function to therod 235 of the packaging system 400, except that the rod 734 includes aproximal end region that is formed for arrangement within the inserterhandle 900 instead a proximal end region formed as the circular end 232.

As can be seen in FIG. 27 , the proximal depression 704 has a lengththat is longer than the inserter handle 900, which allows the inserterhandle 900 to be slid distally within the proximal depression 704 duringthe process of loading the IUD 100 into the insertion tube 202.

The inserter handle 900 can be detached from the tray 706 withoutdamaging the inserter handle 900 or the tray 706. For example, theinserter handle 900 can be removed from the tray 706 once the IUD 100 isloaded into the insertion tube 202 and ready for insertion into thepatient.

As depicted in FIG. 26 , the system 700 can also include a protectivecover 780 that can be placed over the inserter handle 900 to helpprevent the inserter handle 900 from prematurely dislodging from thetray 706 and to help prevent movement of the slider button 902 duringtransportation, thereby protecting the inserter handle 900 from damage.The protective cover 780 can be removed from the tray 706 to expose theinserter handle 900 when a user is ready to load the IUD 100 into theinsertion tube 202. In some embodiments, the protective cover 780 ismolded from a transparent plastic material. The protective cover 780 hasa surface profile that is generally complementary to a surface profileformed by placement of the inserter handle 900 within the proximaldepression 704 of the tray 706 such that the protective cover 780 canmaintain the inserter handle 900 substantially in place.

FIGS. 27-29 illustrate a method of securing the IUD 100 to the insertiontube 202 using the packaging system 700. FIG. 27 illustrates a state ofthe IUD 100, the insertion tube 202, and the inserter handle 900 asinitially packaged in the tray 706 upon opening of the packaging system700 by a user. The arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 are substantiallyperpendicular to the shaft 104 of the IUD 100 and are positioned withinthe distal depression 702, with the arms 106, 108 spanning the width ofthe proximal end 703 of the distal depression 702. The rod 735 ispositioned within the insertion tube 202 and the slider button 902 ofthe inserter handle 900 is in a neutral position. The insertion tube 202is positioned within the slot 722 and is releasably coupled to the tray706 by flanges 740, 742, 744, 746.

Referring to FIG. 28 , the inserter handle 900 is advanced distallywithin the proximal depression 704 so that the rod 735 can be advanceddistally through the insertion tube 202 towards the IUD 100 to apply aforce to the end of the shaft 104 of the IUD 100 and move the IUD 100distally within the distal depression 702. As the IUD 100 is advanceddistally within the distal depression 702, the arms 106, 108 are pressedagainst the walls 714, 716 of the loading aid 760, which causes the arms106, 108 of the IUD 100 to fold inwards towards the shaft 104 of the IUD100.

Referring to FIG. 29 , the handle 900 is advance distally within theproximal depression 704 until the IUD is positioned at the distal end705 of the distal depression 702 and the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100are folded into a collapsed state against the shaft 104 of the IUD 100.Once the arms 106, 108 are folded against the shaft 104, the insertiontube 202 is slid distally along the slot 722 and over proximal ends ofthe folded arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100, as depicted in FIG. 29 . Forexample, the slider button 902 of the inserter handle 900 can be sliddistally to a forward position (e.g., by a user's finger), which causesthe insertion tube 202 to slide distally over the folded arms 106, 108of the IUD.

Once the insertion tube 202 is positioned over the folded arms 106, 108to maintain the collapsed state of the arms 106, 108, the IUD 100, theinsertion tube 202, the rod 735, and the inserter handle 900 can beremoved from the tray 706 by lifting up on the inserter handle 900, andthe IUD 100 is ready for implantation in the uterus 102 of a patient.

Once the IUD 100 is properly positioned within the uterus 102 of thepatient (e.g., at the fundus 134 of the uterus 102, as depicted in FIG.13 ), the slider button 902 of the inserter handle 900 can be drawnbackwards (i.e., proximally) to a rear position to cause the insertiontube 202 to be withdrawn proximally and release the arms 106, 108 of theIUD 100 from the insertion tube 202. The rod 735 inside of the insertiontube 202 is held steady by the inserter handle 900 while the insertiontube 202 is pulled proximally to release the arms 106, 108 of the IUD100. For example, the insertion tube 202 may be pulled proximally untilthe proximal end of the insertion tube 202 contacts the end portion 232(shown in FIG. 2 ) of the rod 735. In some examples, the insertion tube202 is pulled proximally by a distance of about 0.4 cm to about 0.6 cm(e.g., about 0.5 cm) to release the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100.

In some embodiments, the inserter handle 900 includes a lockingmechanism (not shown) that secures the one or more threads 110 of theIUD 100 (shown in FIG. 1 ) to the inserter handle 900 during loading ofthe IUD 100 into the insertion tube 2020 and implantation of the IUD 100into the patient. For example, the locking mechanism of the inserterhandle 900 remains closed over the threads 110 when the slider button902 is in the neutral position or forward position (as shown in FIGS.27-29 ), and only releases the threads 110 when the slider button 902 isslid proximally into the rear position (e.g., during implantation of theIUD 100 in the uterus 102 as described above). In some embodiments, theslider button 902 is designed such that it cannot be withdrawn into therear position until it has first been pushed distally into the forwardposition (as shown in FIG. 29 ), which prevents premature release of thethreads 110 of the IUD 100 from the inserter handle 900.

After ensuring proper placement of the IUD 100 in the uterus 102, theinserter handle 900 can be withdrawn proximally to remove the rod 735and the insertion tube 202 from the cervical canal of the patient. Insome examples, after removal of the insertion tube 202 from the patient,the one or more threads 110 coupled to the shaft 104 of the IUD 100 aretrimmed. The threads of the IUD 100 may be trimmed so that a length ofabout 1.5 cm to about 2.0 cm (e.g., about 2.0 cm) of the one or morethreads 110 extends out the cervical canal and into the vagina of thepatient.

FIGS. 31 and 32 depict another example packaging system 800 thatincludes multiple receptacles formed to facilitate folding of the arms106, 108 of an IUD 100. For example, the packaging system 800 houses anIUD 100 and is designed for securing the IUD 100 to an insertion tube202. The packaging system 800 includes a tray 806 defining multipledepressions formed in either of a main body 890 of the tray 806 or aloading aid 860 of the tray. The depressions include a distal depression802, a proximal depression 804, and a slot 822 connecting the distaldepression 802 and the proximal depression 804.

As depicted in FIGS. 31 and 32 , the main body 890 of the tray 806includes a first tray half 811 and a second tray half 813. In someembodiments, the first tray half 811 and the loading aid 860 are formedas two separate components that are assembled together duringmanufacture. In other embodiments, the two portions are provided as asingle, unitary, integral component. When fully assembled, as depictedin FIG. 31 , the second tray half 813 is positioned over the top of aproximal portion 815 of the first tray half 811. The second tray half813 is slidable in the proximal and distal directions over the proximalportion 815 of the first tray half 811, which enables distal movement ofthe inserter handle 900 to cause folding of the arms 106, 108 of the IUD100 for loading into the insertion tube 202. For example, as will bedescribed in further detail herein, the second tray half 813 can be sliddistally relative to the first tray half 811, which causes the inserterhandle 900 and rod 735 coupled to the inserter handle 900 to be advanceddistally towards the IUD 100 to apply a force to the end of the shaft104 of the IUD 100 and move the IUD distally within the distaldepression 802. As the IUD 100 is advanced distally within the distaldepression 802, the arms 106, 108 are pressed against the walls 814, 816of a loading aid 860 defining the distal depression 802, which causesthe arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 to fold inwards towards the shaft 104of the IUD 100.

As can be seen in FIGS. 31 and 32 , the first tray half 811 includes twolegs 817, 819 (e.g., elongate platforms) that slidably couple to twocorresponding slots on the underside of the second tray half 813 bywhich the second tray half 813 can slide along the legs 817, 819. Inaddition, the first tray half 811 includes two corresponding shoulders821, 823 (e.g., abutment surfaces) that prevent distal movement of thesecond tray half 813 over the first tray half 811 beyond the shoulders821, 823. As can be seen in FIGS. 31 and 32 , a height of the shoulders821, 823 is elevated compared to that of the legs 817, 819 and to thatof the second tray half 813, which prevents further distal movement ofthe second tray half 813.

Similar to distal depression 702 of tray 706, the first tray half 811includes a distal depression 802 defined by a loading aid 860 coupled tothe distal portion 836 of the first tray half 811. The proximal end 803of the distal depression 802 accommodates the arms 106, 108 of the IUD100 in an initial configuration (e.g., a packaged state) in which thearms 106, 108 are substantially perpendicular to the shaft 104 of theIUD 100, as depicted in FIG. 31 . As depicted in FIGS. 31 and 32 , theloading aid 860 includes tapered walls 814, 816 that result in thedistal end 805 of the distal depression 802 having a width that isnarrower than the width of the proximal end 803 of the distaldepression. The distal end 805 of the distal depression 802 has a widthd just large enough to receive the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 in acollapsed or folded state (as depicted in FIG. 19 ). That is, the distaldepression 802 is formed as a generally triangular-shaped depressionthat narrows distally towards distal end 829 of tray 806. The shape ofdistal depression 802 formed by the loading aid 860 causes the arms 106,108 of the IUD 100 to be pushed inwards towards the shaft 104 of the IUD100 through contact with tapered walls 814, 816 of the loading aid 860as the IUD 100 is pushed distally through the distal depression 802. Thetray 806 supports the IUD 100 as the IUD 100 is moved distally along thedistal depression 802.

Similar to proximal depression 704, the second tray half 813 of tray 806defines a proximal depression 804 located near the proximal end 828 ofthe tray 806. As depicted in FIG. 31 , the proximal depression 804 issized to accommodate the inserter handle 900 and has a length that isslightly larger than the length of the inserter handle 900, whichprevents the inserter handle 900 from prematurely moving out of the tray806 during transportation of the system 800 and loading of the IUD 100into the insertion tube 202.

As depicted in FIG. 31 , the slot 822 accommodates an insertion tube 202and restricts lateral movement and angular movement of the insertiontube 202 outside the slot 822. As depicted in FIGS. 31 and 32 , the slot822 can include a gripping region 824 that is wider than the rest of theslot 722 (e.g., similar to gripping region 724 of tray 706 depicted inFIGS. 26 and 27 ). The gripping region 824 provides space for a user tograsp a cervical collar 128 that is slidably coupled to of the insertiontube 202 and positioned within the gripping region 824 when theinsertion tube 202 is positioned within the slot 822. As can be seen inFIGS. 31 and 32 , the first tray half 811 can include markings 862indicating positions to position the cervical collar 128 according to ameasured uterine depth, as discussed above with respect to the tray 706.

A method of securing the IUD 100 to the insertion tube 202 using thepackaging system 800 will be described with reference to FIGS. 31 and 32. Referring to FIG. 31 , the arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 aresubstantially perpendicular to the shaft 104 of the IUD 100 and arepositioned within the distal depression 802, with the arms 106, 108spanning the width of the proximal end 803 of the distal depression 802in an initial configuration of the packaging system 800. The rod 735 ispositioned within the insertion tube 202, and the inserter handle 900 ispositioned within the proximal depression 804. The slider button 902 ofthe inserter handle 900 is in a neutral position. The insertion tube 202is positioned within the slot 822.

The second tray half 813 is slid distally along the leg 817, 819 of thefirst tray half 811 so that the inserter handle 900 and rod 735 coupledto the handle 900 are advanced distally towards the IUD 100. Forexample, a user can hold the first tray half 811 still while sliding thesecond tray half 813 distally over the proximal portion 815 of the firsttray half 811 using his or her fingers. As the rod 735 is advanceddistally via distal movement of second tray half 813, the rod 735applies a force to the end of the shaft 104 of the IUD 100 to move theIUD 100 distally within the distal depression 802. As the IUD 100 isadvanced distally within the distal depression 802, the arms 106, 108are pressed against the loading aid 860, which causes the arms 106, 108of the IUD 100 to fold inwards towards the shaft 104 of the IUD 100.

The second tray half 813 is slid distally along the legs 817, 819 of thefirst tray half 811 until the second tray half 813 abuts the shoulders821, 823 of the first tray half 811, which corresponds to the IUD 100being positioned at the distal end 805 of the distal depression 802 andthe arms 106, 108 of the IUD 100 being folded into a collapsed stateagainst the shaft 104 of the IUD 100. Once the arms 106, 108 are foldedagainst the shaft 104, the insertion tube 202 is slid distally along theslot 822 and over proximal ends of the folded arms 106, 108. Forexample, the slider button 902 of the inserter handle 900 can be sliddistally to a forward position, which causes the insertion tube 202 toslide distally over the folded arms 106, 108 of the IUD.

Once the insertion tube 202 is positioned over the folded arms 106, 108of the IUD 100 to maintain the collapsed state of the arms 106, 108, theIUD 100, insertion tube 202, rod 735, and inserter handle 900 can beremoved from the tray 806 by lifting up on the inserter handle 900, andthe IUD 100 can be implanted in the uterus 102 of a patient, asdescribed above.

While the packaging systems 200, 500, 700, 800; the loading devices 204,504, 604; and the trays 406, 706, 806 have been described andillustrated with respect to certain dimensions, sizes, shapes,arrangements, materials, and methods, in some embodiments, a packagingsystem, a loading device, or a tray that is otherwise substantiallysimilar in construction and function to any of the packaging systems200, 500, 700, 800; the loading devices 204, 504, 604; or the trays 406,706, 806 may include one or more different dimensions, sizes, shapes,arrangements, and materials or may be utilized according to differentmethods. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of thefollowing claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A tray for securing an implantable device to acarrier member, the tray defining: a slot configured to retain thecarrier member, wherein the carrier member surrounds a shaft of theimplantable device; and a receptacle adjacent the slot, wherein thereceptacle has a first width at a proximal end of the receptacle toreceive first and second arms of the implantable device in an initialstate in which the first and second arms extend substantiallyperpendicularly from the shaft, wherein the receptacle has a secondwidth at a distal end of the receptacle for receiving the first andsecond arms of the implantable device in a collapsed state in which thefirst and second arms are folded against the shaft such that the carriermember can be slid over the first and second arms to retain the firstand second arms, and wherein the second width is less than the firstwidth.
 2. The tray of claim 1, wherein the tray defines one or moreflanges configured to secure the carrier member to the tray.
 3. The trayof claim 1, wherein the tray comprises: a main body defining the slot;and a loading aid defining the receptacle, the loading aid being coupledto a distal portion of the main body.
 4. The tray of claim 3, whereinthe loading aid comprises a first wall and a second wall opposite thefirst wall, and wherein the first and second walls are formed to guidethe first and second arms of the implantable device into the collapsedstate upon distal movement of the implantable device within thereceptacle.
 5. The tray of claim 4, wherein the receptacle has a taperedshape.
 6. The tray of claim 1, wherein the implantable device comprisesan intrauterine device, and wherein the carrier member comprises aninsertion tube.
 7. The tray of claim 1, wherein the receptacle is afirst receptacle, and wherein the tray further defines a secondreceptacle adjacent the slot and opposite the first receptacle, thesecond receptacle being configured to receive a handle that is coupledto the carrier member.
 8. The tray of claim 7, wherein the secondreceptacle is longer than the handle to permit distal movement of thehandle within the second receptacle.
 9. The tray of claim 1, furtherdefining a gripping region positioned along the slot, the grippingregion being wider than the slot.
 10. The tray of claim 9, wherein thetray comprises ruler markings adjacent the gripping region, the rulermarkings indicating respective uterine depths.
 11. The tray of claim 1,wherein the tray comprises: a first support body defining thereceptacle; and a second support body slidably coupled to the firstsupport body.
 12. The tray of claim 11, wherein the first support bodydefines: an elongate platform slidably coupled to the second supportbody; and a shoulder configured to prevent distal movement of the secondsupport body relative to the first support body beyond the shoulder. 13.The tray of claim 11, wherein distal movement of the second support bodyrelative to the first support body causes the implantable device to movedistally within the receptacle from the proximal end of the receptacleto the distal end of the receptacle to cause the first and second armsof the implantable device to move from the initial state into thecollapsed state.
 14. A packaging system comprising: a tray for securingan implantable device to a carrier member, the tray comprising: a slotconfigured to retain the carrier member, wherein the carrier membersurrounds a shaft of the implantable device, and a receptacle adjacentthe slot, wherein the receptacle has a first width at a proximal end ofthe receptacle to receive first and second arms of the implantabledevice in an initial state in which the first and second arms extendsubstantially perpendicularly from the shaft, wherein the receptacle hasa second width at a distal end of the receptacle for receiving the firstand second arms of the implantable device in a collapsed state in whichthe first and second arms are folded against the shaft such that thecarrier member can be slid over the first and second arms to retain thefirst and second arms, and wherein the second width is less than thefirst width; and a protective cover formed complementary to at least aportion of the tray for securing a handle that is coupled to the carriermember to the tray.
 15. The packaging system of claim 14, wherein thetray defines one or more flanges configured to secure the carrier memberto the tray.
 16. The packaging system of claim 14, wherein the traycomprises: a main body defining the slot; and a loading aid defining thereceptacle, the loading aid being coupled to a distal portion of themain body.
 17. The packaging system of claim 16, wherein the loading aidcomprises a first wall and a second wall opposite the first wall, andwherein the first and second walls are formed to guide the first andsecond arms of the implantable device into the collapsed state upondistal movement of the implantable device within the receptacle.
 18. Thepackaging system of claim 17, wherein the receptacle has a taperedshape.
 19. The packaging system of claim 14, further defining a grippingregion positioned along the slot, the gripping region being wider thanthe slot.
 20. A method of preparing an implantable device fordeployment, the method comprising: accessing a tray that is assembledwith the implantable device and with a carrier member that surrounds ashaft of the implantable device, the tray defining: a slot configured toretain the carrier member, wherein the carrier member surrounds theshaft of the implantable device, and a receptacle adjacent the slot,wherein the receptacle has a first width at a proximal end of thereceptacle to receive first and second arms of the implantable device inan initial state in which the first and second arms extend substantiallyperpendicularly from the shaft of the implantable device, wherein thereceptacle has a second width at a distal end of the receptacle forreceiving the first and second arms of the implantable device in acollapsed state in which the first and second arms are folded againstthe shaft, and wherein the second width is less than the first width;moving the implantable device distally from the proximal end of thereceptacle to the distal end of the receptacle, causing the first andsecond arms of the implantable device to move from the initial state tothe collapsed state; and sliding the carrier member distally along theslot and over the first and second arms to retain the first and secondarms within the carrier member.